Trip Pick of the Week: Affordable Alaska Cruise

Where in the world: Alaska Cruise (8d/7n)
Book by: August 12, 2014
Departure Dates: September 12 and 20, 2015
Cost: $599pp
Why I Like It: Hello, did you see the pricetag? A week-long Alaska cruise with all meals, entertainment, and more included at such a sweet price (roughly $1,000pp off regular price). The price breaks down to less than $85 a day! And you may have to book this week but you have a year to plan and pay for it.
FYI: Departure city is Seattle. You can upgrade to an all-inclusive package, which includes unlimited drinks, specialty dining, prepaid gratuities, shore excursions, additional discounts, and more. Cruises will be on Norweigan Jewel or Norweigan Pearl. Both ships have 16 dining options and 13 bars & lounges. The Pearl  has a bowling alley and rock climbing wall while the Jewel  just underwent extensive renovations and offers deluxe staterooms and suites. The big reason for this cheap price is that these departures are in shoulder season. The tourist season for Alaska is May – September. May, June & September are shoulder (low) season while July and August are peak season. What does this mean exactly? During July and August it is very crowded, mosquitoes are problematic, and you pay premium price. But it is quite warm and daylight for up to eighteen hours. However, during the low season bargains can be had, it is not as hot (and few mosquitoes), and the temperatures are still mild. However, the days are shorter and it will be cool in the mornings and evenings.  The up side is that it is not so crowded and it is the best time for wildlife viewing. Bottom line: I think it is a good time to go. The days are long enough to enjoy most shore excursions and there are so many activities on board that you won’t notice the shorter days.
For more info: www.iCruise.com
Book It, Dano: 800-849-4633 (promo code: travelZoo)